NFL draft preview: NFC and AFC West picks

The Rams sit at one of the early pivot points of the draft. They could use help in a host of areas, whether receiver (Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon), cornerback (LSU's Morris Claiborne), or offensive line, were USC's Matt Kalil to slip past the Vikings at No. 3. The Rams have three of the first 39 picks.

The Seahawks let their middle linebacker go, and Boston College's Luke Kuechly is a player who could step in as a Week 1 starter. The Seahawks also could use help along the defensive line, particularly someone who can rush the passer. And even though safety isn't a glaring position of need, don't be shocked if they take a hard look at Alabama's Mark Barron, especially with so many teams using multiple tight ends.

Cardinals

First-round pick: No. 13

There's some debate about who is the best guard in the draft, Stanford's David DeCastro or Georgia's Cordy Glenn. Either would work for the Cardinals, though, who have a need. Like many teams, the Cardinals are looking for help at outside linebacker. The team is eyeing available receivers, too, among them Notre Dame's Michael Floyd.

49ers

First-round pick: No. 30

The fashionable pick for 49ers is Stanford tight end Coby Fleener. But Jim Harbaugh, his former college coach, has more pressing needs. As good as their offensive line is, the 49ers could use help at guard. They also could pick up some depth along the defensive line, someone who could complement/learn behind Justin Smith.

AFC WestChiefs

First-round pick: No. 11

The Chiefs likely will be looking for a defensive lineman who fits coach Romeo Crennel's 3-4 scheme, such as LSU's Michael Brockers. The Chiefs could use an inside linebacker, too, and the logical choice would be Luke Kuechly. Quarterback is also a possibility, but maybe in a later round.

Chargers

First-round pick: No. 18

The Chargers are looking to lock down their strong safety spot, so don't be surprised if they try to move up to grab Mark Barron. They need another pass-rushing outside linebacker, too, especially with Peyton Manning now in the division. With Mike Tolbert gone, another running back would be helpful from a middle round.

Broncos

First round pick: No. 25

Just like last year, the Broncos could use some interior defensive line help. They have Ty Warren, but he's 31 and frequently battling injuries (he last played 16 games in 2007.) The Broncos also will take a hard look at running backs, with Willis McGahee on the wrong side of 30 and Knowshon Moreno not panning out. The club also could use help at corner.

Raiders

First-round pick: None

Unless they find a way to trade back into the upper rounds of the draft, the Raiders will be early spectators. They don't have a pick until the third round. No team has fewer than their five overall. Still, the Raiders can use what they have to build defensive depth, picking up help on the line and at outside linebacker as well as tight end.